1. Set up your vault
Install the app, load your license, and create your master password. Save your recovery phrase in a safe place. See How to Get Started and Load Your License and Creating Your Master Password.
2. Add essential entries
Start with Financial and Legal: where important documents are, who to contact (attorney, bank), and how to access or close accounts. Then add Medical, Digital Life, and Personal. Use What to Include in Your Vault as a guide.
3. Attach important documents
Where it helps, attach PDFs or images to entries (wills, policies, etc.) so everything is in one place. See Attaching Documents.
4. Create a backup
Save an encrypted backup to a USB or external drive. Store it somewhere safe and tell your family where it is. See Backing Up Your Vault.
5. Tell your family
Let at least one trusted person know the vault exists, where the backup is, and where to find your master password (e.g. sealed envelope with your will). See Telling Family About Your Vault and Sharing with Family.
6. Review regularly
Once a year and after major life events, update entries and create a new backup. See Keeping Your Vault Updated.
Tip: You don't have to finish the whole checklist in one day. Start with steps 1–4, then add entries over time and revisit the list as needed.